A recent study has identified significant asthma hotspots among Australian children, particularly in regions with higher socio-economic disadvantage and Indigenous populations. Conducted by the University of New South Wales (UNSW), the research indicates that asthma is notably more prevalent in certain regional areas, with some communities experiencing rates exceeding double the national average for children. The study, which analysed data from 2,321 communities using the 2021 Census, highlighted that regions such as Acton-Upper Burnie in Tasmania report asthma rates as high as 13.8%.
The findings revealed an alarming trend linking asthma prevalence to areas of social deprivation, with lead author Jahid Khan expressing surprise at the scale of the disparities across communities. The hotspots primarily include rural and remote locations in New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland, and Tasmania. The study underscores the urgent need for targeted interventions and resources to address the burden of asthma in these affected areas. By recognising these hotspots, health authorities can better allocate resources to combat this chronic condition among children and improve long-term health outcomes.